Reduction of Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from the Application of Traffic Markings, Final Report.

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Traditional traffic markings materials (solvent-borne paints) are a source of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. This study was conducted to evaluate alternative traffic marking techniques that can be used to reduce VOC emissions from this source. This document provides information on traffic marking application processes., VOC emissions and emission reductions, and costs associated with the alternative marking techniques. This information will allow planners to (1) identify available alternative low- and zero-VOC traffic marking techniques, (2) estimate the baseline VOC emission level for the planner's geographic area, and (3) evaluate the VOC reduction and cost of implementing alternative traffic marking techniques. The primary conclusions from this study are: (1) the use of available low-and zero-VOC alternatives such as waterborne coatings, thermoplastics, field-reacted materials, preformed tapes, and permanent markets can result in VOC emission reductions ranging from 15 percent to 100 percent; (2) the annualized costs for the alternative marking techniques are less than or equivalent to those for traditional solvent-borne paints; and (3) the performance of the alternative markings is equivalent to or better than that of traditional solvent-borne paints.